Causes

The exact causes of asthma are unknown. Genetics do play a role.

The airways become very sensitive to triggers in people with asthma. The reaction causes a flare up of symptoms called an asthma attack. It includes swelling of airway and increase in mucus. At the same time, muscles around the airway tighten. These reactions all make it hard to breathe.

Your doctor may also do some
allergy tests. The test will help determine if allergies are causing symptoms. The test may include skin pricks or blood tests.

Treatment

The goal of treatment is to prevent asthma attacks when possible. A second goal is to manage attacks and ease breathing.

You and your doctor will create an asthma action plan. This is a plan you will follow to help control your asthma and handle asthma attacks. Tools can also be used at home to test your breathing. Keep in touch with your care team. Your plan made need to change over time.

Medicine

Medicine to Control Asthma

Some medicine is taken on a regular basis. It may help to stop asthma tacks from starting. They can not treat an existing attack. Medicine may include one or more of the following:

Inhaled corticosteroids—to prevent airway swelling and inflammation

Inhaled long-acting beta agonists—to keep airways relaxed

Oral leukotriene modifiers—to prevent airway inflammation and swelling, decrease mucus in the lungs, and open the airways

Inhaled cromolyn or nedocromil—to prevent airways from swelling after contact with a trigger

Biologic agents—if asthma is not controlled by other medicine

Medicine Used to Treat an Asthma Attack

Other medicine can be used to treat an asthma attack. It will help to open the airways and ease breathing. Options include:

Inhaled quick-acting beta agonists and anticholinergic agents—to open the airways

Corticosteroids pills—to reduce severe airway inflammation

Procedure

Bronchial thermoplasty may be done for severe asthma. A tool is used to clear out excess muscle around the airway. This will help keep airway more open during an attack.

Avoiding Attacks

Prevention can be an important part of asthma care. Finding triggers is the first step. Possible triggers of an asthma attack in a person with asthma include:

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.